I prefer the longer coat as well, it does take a lot of work but it's worth it for looks. I must say though I went a bit shorter yesterday with Chloe as she is black and the last of her puppy fur is still coming out so I was concerned she would be too hot!
Once I decided we weren't going to show her the stress of grooming went out of the window! I still keep her looking smart but don't stress over whether I've done it exactly right if that makes sense?
I splashed out on professional shampoo, conditioning spray, grooming table with noose, spratts comb, slicker brush, coat king, thinning scissors and ordinary scissors, rubber gloves for stripping and a grooming DVD, oh and I also got some of the grooming clogs which were recommended to me for their comfort!
I went a bit mad really and in total this came to over £300!
Don't tell OH though!
I'm glad I did invest in all this though and other than sharpening scissors or replacing them this lot should last me quite a while!